Family Friendly Attractions & Events
Nestled amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, Moody Gardens offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for guests of all ages for work or play. From tropical rainforests to the oceans of the world, a wide range of attractions, educational activities, kid's events, dining options, and exciting entertainment await. This island resort uniquely accommodates large conferences, weddings and social events as well as being the romantic escape and family destination where special memories are created.
Holiday in the Gardens
What is Holiday in the Gardens and when does it run?
Holiday in the Gardens is Moody Gardens' annual holiday festival, featuring dazzling light displays, ice sculptures, seasonal shows, and more. The 2026 festival runs November 21, 2026 through January 2, 2027.
What are the main attractions during Holiday in the Gardens?
ICE LAND: Caribbean Christmas, more than two million pounds of hand-carved ice with a Giant Ice Slide and Shiver's Ice Bar, kept at a chilly 9 degrees inside a tent.
Holiday Lights Trail (formerly Festival of Lights), a one-mile illuminated trail with over two million lights synced to holiday music, overlooking Galveston Bay.
Arctic Slide, Ice Skating Rink, and Train Rides, family-friendly activities woven into the festive experience.
Holiday Films, festive 3D and immersive 4D shows including Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D and Scrooge 4D: A Christmas Carol.
A Very Electric Christmas, a glow-in-the-dark live spectacle from the acclaimed Lightwire Theater. Watch the holidays light up as electroluminescent puppetry brings a winter journey to life on stage.
Are there dining events or special holiday meals offered?
Yes. From Thanksgiving to New Year's, Moody Gardens has several holiday dining options.
What should I wear for outdoor and indoor activities like ICE LAND?
ICE LAND is maintained at around 9 degrees, so warm clothing including coats, hats, and gloves is recommended. Parkas are provided for guest use.
Can I stay at the hotel and take advantage of holiday packages?
Yes. Moody Gardens offers special holiday hotel packages, often including extras like attraction passes, themed entertainment, and more.
Are pets or animals allowed at Holiday Lights and other attractions?
Only service animals are allowed on the Moody Gardens property. This is for the safety of our guests and animals. Dogs are allowed on special theme nights.
Can I bring outside food and drinks?
Moody Gardens provides food and beverage options at our restaurants, as well as the indoor and outdoor concession areas. Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
Can I apply my purchase towards a membership?
Yes. This is the very best Moody Gardens value. An Annual Membership pays for itself in just two visits, so take your receipt to the ticket counter at the end of the day, apply that purchase toward an Annual Membership and enjoy Moody Gardens all year long. Please note that Train Tickets and Arctic Slide Tickets do not apply.
Where can I find information for guests with disabilities?
Accessible parking is available in the Central and West Parking Lots, as well as in the Parking Garage. Courtesy wheelchairs may be checked out at the Ticket Counters. A Guest Services staff member will request your driver's license as a deposit, which will be returned when you bring the wheelchair back.
For more details, see our accessibility page.
Tickets & Passes
What is the Holiday Pass?
The Holiday Pass is one ticket for a full evening at Holiday in the Gardens. It's valid after 4 PM and includes:
- ICE LAND: Caribbean Christmas
- Holiday Lights Trail
- Aquarium Pyramid
- One 3D film in the MG3D Theater and one 4D film in the 4D Special FX Theater
- Four Arctic Slide rides (riders 36 inches and taller)
- One Kiddie Train ride (riders 48 inches and under)
- Ice Skating Rink admission (skate rentals sold separately)
How much does the Holiday Pass cost?
Adult Holiday Pass tickets start at $55. Prices vary by date, with the lowest prices on Value Nights, Sunday through Thursday, Nov. 30 to Dec. 17. Choose your date when you buy tickets to see that night's price. Adult tickets cover ages 13 to 64, and the child and senior ticket covers ages 4 to 12 and 65 and older.
When can I use the Holiday Pass?
The Holiday Pass is valid after 4 PM on the date you choose. The Holiday Lights Trail opens at dusk, usually around 6 PM, so arriving early gives you time for the Aquarium Pyramid and your films. Check Daily Hours before you go.
Should I get the Holiday Pass or single tickets?
Choose the Holiday Pass if you want the whole evening: ICE LAND, the Holiday Lights Trail, the Aquarium Pyramid, films, the Arctic Slide, the train and skating on one ticket. If you only want one experience, ICE LAND and Holiday Lights Trail tickets are also sold separately. ICE LAND tickets are $35 for adults and $29 for kids (4 to 12) and seniors (65+).
Are there discounts on the Holiday Pass?
Yes, on select Value Nights. On Food Drive Thursdays in December, bring a non-perishable food item for 2-for-1 admission. On Family Nights, Wednesdays from December 2 to 16, buy an adult ticket and get a child's ticket free. See Value Nights for every theme night.
Is A Very Electric Christmas included with the Holiday Pass?
No. A Very Electric Christmas is a separate reserved-seat ticket. Every show ticket includes one-time admission to the Holiday Lights Trail, valid the day before, the day of or the day after your show.
